Cat & Dog Bad Breath: Causes & Treatments

According to the 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association, an estimated 60.2 million households own dogs and 47.1 million households own cats. It is clear Americans love dogs and cats, and it is wonderful when they show affection by licking or snuggling our faces, but not so much when their breath is stinky! Considering 80% of all dogs and 70% of all cats show signs of dental disease before age 4, bad breath (halitosis) is a common issue facing most pet owners.

How to Get Rid of Dog's Bad Breath

Dr. Katz offers an effective, easy-to-use, and safe solution designed to promote oxygenation in your pet's mouth. The oxygenating activity of TheraBreath for Dogs & Cats Fresh Breath Water Additive instantly begins to destroy the bacteria responsible for bad breath. Once oxygen is present, the anaerobic, sulfur-producing bacteria can no longer produce the sulfur compounds found in bad breath and/or gum disease. You simply pour the solution into your pet's water bowl or you can purchase a squeeze or spray bottle and spray it directly into their mouth.

What Causes Bad Breath in Dogs and Cats?

Like humans, bad breath in dogs or cats is caused by a build-up of odor-producing bacteria in their mouths, lungs, or guts. A lack of saliva can compound the problem because bacteria thrive in dry environments. This can lead to plaque, tartar, gingivitis, and more serious periodontal disease. Small cat breeds and those with short-nosed, flat-faced features (e.g. Himalayans and Persians) are more prone to periodontal and other mouth diseases, as are small dog breeds. This is caused in part by their teeth being closer together. In kittens and puppies that are teething, temporary halitosis may result from bacteria collecting at the gum line as adult teeth push out baby teeth.

What are Signs of Gum Disease in Dogs and Cats?

Bad, stale breath

Missing or broken teeth

Loose teeth

Bleeding or swollen gums

Persistent yellow or brown teeth

Any unusual growths

Avoidance of chew toys, chewing bones (dogs)

Avoiding drinking cold water

Receding gums

Signs of tartar and plaque buildup

Any signs of pus or drainage

How Can I Determine if My Pet Has Gum Issues?

Pick a quiet place where your pet won't be disturbed by noise or distractions. It's important to take your time and be gentle.

For the left side molars: Place index finger of left hand on top of muzzle and place left thumb below bottom jaw to prevent your pet from opening their jaw

Lift their lips open with right index finger and thumb

Examine the gum area around the back molars for plaque and tartar

To check for loose teeth, gently press each tooth

To check the front teeth, separate upper and lower lips with thumbs and index finger, looking for redness (inflammation or infections) where the gums meet the teeth

Repeat same steps on the right side

Can Other Issues Cause Cat or Dog Bad Breath?

Although gum disease is the leading cause of bad breath in dogs and cats, a number of more serious health issues can be contributing factors.

Other oral diseases: In cats, stomatitis causes painful inflammation of the gums and mouth tissues. In dogs and cats, bad breath can be associated with oral masses (e.g. both cancerous and benign growths). Gingival hyperplasia causes gums to become inflamed and enlarged, creating bumps and deep crevices where bacteria proliferate.

Gastrointestinal disease: If a pet has health issues with their esophagus, stomach, or intestines, this can lead to bad breath.

Metabolic disease: Diseases impacting the body's metabolic balance or enabling the presence of abnormal levels of certain toxins in the blood can result in terrible mouth odors. Kidney disease is the most common, in particular the end-stage process called uremia, which causes characteristically sour-smelling breath.

You provide your pets with healthy nutrition, a warm safe home, and constant attention because you adore them! Use TheraBreath for Dogs & Cats and you'll no longer have to worry about smelly licks and snuggles. Moreover, you'll help protect your pet from the consequences of untreated periodontal disease, including the loss of teeth. Request a free copy of Complete Oral Health for Your Pet to learn more.